Generative Paradox in Learner-Centered College Teaching

The discussion identifies six contradictions that characterize the emergent learner-centered teaching role: (a) control/flow, (b) facilitator/evaluator, (c) teacher learning/student learning, (d) subject expert/teaching expert, (e) caring for students/caring for self, and (f) individual mentor/group leader. Key concepts are presented (conflict, compartmentalized paradox, and generative paradox) which represent points on a continuum of the degree to which college teachers have successfully integrated these fundamental contradictions in the learner-centered teaching role. This article extends an ongoing discussion of integrity in learner-centered teaching by providing a conceptual paradigm and examples for developing consistently productive responses to these six fundamental contradictions in learner-centered teaching.Douglas Reimondo Robertson (Ph.D., Syracuse University) is Assistant Provost for Professional Development Programs and Professor of Educational Leadership at Northern Kentucky University. His most recent line of research focuses on further developing the emergent concept and practice of learner-centered college teaching.